Aussie scrum-half Gavin Clinch was man-of-the-match and veteran star Alan Hunte brought the final curtain on his illustrious career with a superb two-try performance.

Hero Clinch saluted coach Karl Harrison who has masterminded the Reds' top-flight return, saying: "It's so good to have gained what we set out to achieve - this club has great potential, a fine coach and tremendous ambition."

Hard work

Alan Hunte said: "It's been a long 11 months working towards this goal but nothing was going to stop us winning the one match that mattered most - our fans have been magnificent - this was for them."

Reds' immediate priority is boosting their champion squad. Top Australian star Joel Caine tops the wanted list as coach Harrison looks to sign at least six new players for next term.

Pack ace Andy Coley was set to sign a new long-term deal later today.

Salford will gear up for their move to a new £35 million stadium at Barton for the 2005 season. Chairman Wilkinson says revenue generated by the project guarantees Salford will not only be a major force in the British game but also on the world RL stage.

Wilkinson added: "We are better equipped going back into Super League and mean business."